The Salamander

Winner of the 2024 Akutagawa Prize, The Salamander is a profound exploration of identity, mental health, and the legacies of trauma. The story follows a woman navigating the intricate challenges of reconciling her past while contending with external forces that question her autonomy.

Through an intimate and introspective narrative, Aki Asahina delves into themes of isolation and connection, inviting readers to examine the fragile boundaries of personal experience. With emotional depth and a nuanced perspective, The Salamander challenges conventional views on mental health and identity, making it an unforgettable and thought-provoking literary achievement.